Home Remedies for Bug Repellent You Must Try

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Aug 6, 2024

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Ah, summertime! The season of long sunny days, splashing around at the beach, family barbecues sizzling in the backyard, and plenty of time spent soaking up the great outdoors. Life feels just about perfect—until you hear that familiar buzzing sound. Mosquitoes! These pesky little insects can really put a damper on your summer fun. Instead of slathering on those chemical-laden repellents like DEET or picaridin, which can be harsh on the skin and especially problematic for children, why not consider a gentler, more natural approach? Below, you’ll find 10 plant-based solutions that are effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay. These remedies are not only gentle on your skin but are also tough on bugs, ensuring your summer remains as perfect as it should be.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, a cousin to mint with a lemony twist, is excellent for repelling insects. Crush the leaves and apply them to pulse points like your wrists and ankles. Growing lemon balm in your garden or around your patio can also help keep the surrounding area bug-free.

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Basil

Basil is not just for pesto! Its aromatic leaves can also repel mosquitoes. Place potted basil by your entryways and outdoor living spaces to discourage bugs from entering. You can also rub crushed leaves directly on your skin for personal protection.

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Thyme Oil

Thyme oil is excellent for providing protection against mosquitoes. For an outdoor barbecue, throw some thyme leaves into the fire; the smoke will help repel mosquitoes. For personal use, dilute thyme oil with a carrier oil and apply it to exposed skin.

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Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

For a refreshing scent that bugs despise, turn to lemon eucalyptus oil. This naturally extracted oil works wonders against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. Use it directly on your skin or in a homemade spray diluted with water. However, take note: it's not recommended for children under three years old due to its potency.

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Catnip

Believe it or not, catnip isn't just for cats—it's a mosquito's nightmare. This plant contains nepetalactone, an essential oil that's been shown to be more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes. You can rub catnip leaves directly on your skin or brew a strong tea to spray on before you head outside. For a more long-term solution, consider planting catnip in your garden or on your patio.

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Garlic

Garlic's strong odor is a powerful deterrent for mosquitoes. You can make a garlic spray by crushing several cloves, mixing them with water, and letting the mixture sit overnight. Strain it into a spray bottle and spritz around your seating areas and skin. It’s a surefire way to keep the pests at bay, and it's completely natural.

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Mint

Minty fresh isn't just for breath! Oils from mint plants like peppermint and spearmint keep mosquitoes at bay. They're so effective that they can block bites for hours. Apply the essential oil directly to your skin after a patch test, or mix it with water to create a refreshing spray for your skin and hair. This not only keeps bugs away but leaves you smelling great too.

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Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming scent, but it's also a deterrent for mosquitoes and moths. Hang dried lavender in bunches or use lavender oil drops on your skin or clothing. Its pleasant aroma will keep you relaxed and the bugs away.

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Cinnamon Oil

Cinnamon oil is effective against killing mosquito larvae. Mix a few drops with water and spray around standing water where mosquitoes breed. You can also apply diluted cinnamon oil on your skin as a natural barrier against mosquito bites.

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Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a powerhouse with antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties, making it perfect for fighting off ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. Because it's potent, dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba before skin application to avoid irritation. A few drops in your regular shampoo can also help keep pests away from your head and hair.

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